Zwane says Sundowns ready to embrace Al Ahli test

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane says the African champions are in a positive frame of mind as they prepare to face Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on Saturday.

The match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium will pit the champions of Africa against their Asian counterparts, with Sundowns seeking another major international trophy.

Zwane says the significance of the occasion is clear to the squad, with excitement building inside the dressing room.

“This is a big week for us as a team. The boys are positive and looking forward to the game,” he said.

“You can feel the mood whenever you enter the changing room. Everyone is looking forward to the game.”

The experienced midfielder has also been helping Sundowns’ younger players appreciate what the fixture represents. Kutlwano Lethlaku and Antonio Van Wyk are among those who could feature in a major international match against Al Ahli.

“It is about reminding them all the time of the importance of the game and what winning the trophy can do for the team,” Zwane said.

“And reminding them that we are trying to create history as a team.”

Sundowns recognise the quality in Al Ahli’s squad and expect a demanding contest, but Zwane believes the South African side can compete with their opponents.

“The way we look at them, they are a big club in their league, and we know it is not going to be an easy game against them,” he said.

“But we also know that we are a strong enough team to challenge them.”

The fixture will bring Zwane and several Sundowns players up against Al Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, whom they know from meetings with Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Zwane praised Mendy’s contribution to African football and acknowledged his achievements as a former Chelsea goalkeeper.

“We know their goalkeeper, Edouard Mendy, having played against him in the AFCON,” Zwane said.

“The message to captain Mendy is congratulations for all your hard work, and thank you for everything. Thank you for inspiring players in Africa as a whole.

“We really appreciate the job that you did.”

But any friendship will be set aside when the match begins, with Zwane making clear that Sundowns will approach the game with the intention of winning.

“Obviously, there is no love lost,” he said.

“We still maintain the respect, but we are going there for the kill.

“We know we have good players and that we are a good team. We are going to give them a challenge.”

Tickets for the fixture are selling fast, and Sundowns expect a strong turnout from South African supporters.

Zwane called on fans to attend in large numbers, saying their backing could provide the team with an important advantage.

“My message to the supporters is to ask all South Africans to come in numbers to watch our game,” he said.

“We always feel good whenever we see our supporters come in numbers.

“They play the extra man on the field, and, as I said, we always need them.”